Comparing Modified with Conventional Parotidectomy for Benign Parotid Tumors

Area of Science:

• Surgical Oncology
• Head and Neck Surgery
• Parotid Gland Tumors

Background:

• Benign parotid tumors are common, necessitating effective surgical interventions.
• Conventional parotidectomy can be associated with complications and suboptimal cosmetic outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare functional outcomes and surgical complications of conventional versus modified parotidectomy for benign parotid tumors.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of modified surgical techniques in improving patient results.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 99 patients with benign parotid lesions undergoing parotidectomy.
• Comparison of operation time, cosmetic outcome, nerve anesthesia, Frey syndrome incidence, and secretory function between conventional and modified techniques.

Main Results:

• Modified parotidectomy demonstrated shorter operation times and lower overall complication rates (p < 0.001).
• Improved cosmetic incision (p < 0.001), low sensory deficit, and high sensory recovery were noted in the modified group.
• Preserved glandular function with conserved Stensen duct and rare instances of facial paralysis and Frey syndrome were observed.

Conclusions:

• Modified surgical techniques for benign parotid neoplasms significantly reduce surgery time and enhance outcomes compared to conventional approaches.
• Modified parotidectomy is effective in selected patients, offering improved results and fewer complications.
• No tumor recurrence was observed in either group during follow-up.